Most people have experienced headaches, but why do they actually occur? Headaches can be caused by anything from stress to illness, but some triggers may be more surprising than others.
Neck tension
If you spend too much time in front of a screen or have poor posture, the muscles in your neck and shoulders can tense up. This can trigger headaches, often described as a tight band around the head.
Lack of sleep
Poor or insufficient sleep can greatly impact brain function and lead to tension headaches or migraines. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is essential for headache prevention.
Dehydration
Not drinking enough water is a common cause of headaches. When dehydrated, your brain can contract slightly, increasing pain sensitivity.
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Stress and anxiety
When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones that affect blood vessels in the brain. This can result in a throbbing or pressure-like headache, especially after a busy day.
Too much caffeine
A cup of coffee can give you an energy boost, but excessive caffeine intake can have the opposite effect. If you consume large amounts of coffee, tea, or energy drinks, you may develop headaches—especially if you suddenly cut back.
Screen time and eye strain
Prolonged use of computers, tablets, or smartphones can strain the eyes and cause headaches. If you experience forehead pain after a long day in front of a screen, it may be a sign of digital eye fatigue.
Irregular meals
Skipping meals or having low blood sugar can trigger headaches. Your brain needs a steady supply of energy to function properly.
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Hormonal changes
Hormonal fluctuations can cause headaches, particularly in women. Menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can impact blood vessels in the brain and trigger migraines.
Poor air quality
Lack of fresh air, strong odors, or air pollution can irritate the nervous system and lead to headaches. Insufficient oxygen levels can make the pain even worse.
Overuse of medication
Ironically, excessive use of painkillers can lead to chronic headaches. If you frequently take medication for headaches, your body may become dependent on it and react with more pain when the effect wears off.
The article is based on information from Videnskab.dk.
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